Job overview
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Band 5 Senior Assistant Psychologist/ Autism Assessment Practitioner (job share - 15 hrs per week) in our Community Paediatric Service. The vacancy is ideal for candidates who have an interest in working with young people with neurodiversity and their families. The post will involve working closely with external organisations, as well as members of the Multidisciplinary Team which includes Consultant Community Paediatricians, Clinical Psychologists, Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists and Nurses.Under supervision from the Clinical Psychologist, the successful applicant will work as part of our Autistic Spectrum Disorder Pathway to contribute to diagnostic assessments and provide training, support and advice to families who are in the process of seeking an assessment. This pathway is part of The Dorset Development and Behaviour Pathway which is a locally driven initiative designed to inform and support families who access our service. The post holder will promote and coordinate the patient journey through the service, utilising an evidence based approach. They will act as a single point of contact for families to keep them informed about during the process of assessment and to give practical tips whilst waiting or making referrals to appropriate services. Main duties of the job We are looking for a motivated and flexible individual with an undergraduate/postgraduate degree in Psychology. Strong communication and organisational skills are required.Base Location: Poole Hospital Working for our organisation Our values define who we are as #TeamUHD. They underpin everything we do now and in the future. They define how we treat our patients, visitors, and each other, our valued team mates and colleagues. Detailed job description and main responsibilities To understand the role in more detail please read the full job description and person specification documents which are attached to this advert Person specification Qualifications Essential criteria An Upper Second or First class undergraduate psychology degree (from a BPS accredited course)Evidence of on-going professional development Desirable criteria Postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject e.g. diploma, MSc in a clinical subject relevant to the post Experience Essential criteria Experience of working with young people and families in a community settingUnderstanding of Child Development. Desirable criteria Experience of working with parents/carers in a clinical capacityExperience of coordinating the collection of information and organisation of meetingsExperience of working with children or adults who experience a range of ASD and emotional & behavioural difficultieExperience of administering cognitive/ neuropsychological assessments Technical Skills / Other Essential criteria Highly developed communication skills and ability to work with young people & their families/ carers during times of stress and uncertainty.Good time management and ability to prioritiseKnowledge and understanding in order to Safeguard children.Evidence of team working and the ability to work in a team Personal Qualities Essential criteria A high level of interpersonal skills, self-awareness, sensitivity, tact and empathy in all communicationsStrong self-management and motivation, initiative and a can-do attitudeAwareness of personal and professional boundariesThe ability to instil confidence in others and in managing anxiety in other professionals and with families/carers Desirable criteria Commitment to evidence-based practice.An in-depth understanding of the challenges faced by young people and their families seeking ASD diagnosis and support.